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Is This PH Level Good2007-11-24 23:11:46

I'm completely new at this stuff fish stuff. I currently have 3 zebra danio's, an algea fish and red swordtail. My ph level is 7.4 and the ammonia level is at 0. Are these pretty good numbers? I've had the 60 gallon tank for 3 weeks now, I waited a week to put in the fish.

Answers:

As fishbone stated a stable pH is what is important.

Buffers can be added for fish that thrive in much higher or lower pH, however many products on the market can cause unstable pH which is often worse the osmotic processes of fish than the actual pH.

Your pH is fine for the fish you have, what is more important is a stable KH of at least 50 ppm which will maintain a stable pH. Your GH is a useful measurement of important minerals in the water such as Calcium and Magnesium.

Also do not forget about your ammonia/nitrites which can be highly toxic, especially at higher pH.

Ammonia (NH3) reverts to ammonium (NH4; which is much less toxic) at pH generally under 6.3, but will revert back if your pH climbs again.

For more about pH, KH, Ect, I recommend reading this article:

http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/...

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I'm sure it will be fine. Sword tails and the rest of your fish in your tank will accept this Ph level. Good luck with your fish keeping!

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yes. that is perfect. anytime you add new fish the ammonia will spike. as the bacteria become established thay eat ammonia they will covert it to nitrite nitrogen, both are poisonous to fresh water fish at certain levels. another type of bacteria will become established that will convert that to nitrate nitrogen that is harmless to freshwater fish until it reaches very high levels. live plants, including algae, will use this for their food completing the nitrogen cycle. go on-line to that fish place, i think you will like them!

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The most important thing about pH is that it remains stable. Don't worry so much about "target" values, as you may be tempted to "adjust" the pH using various additives and chemicals that are available on the market. All these will do instead will be to shock your fish due to pH swings and possibly kill them. As long as it's steady, it's ok.

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Yes, that is a good level. If it gets a little lower, say 7.2 or around that, it will also be ok. Under 7.0 wouldn't be the best and over 7.4 wouldn't be the best either.

Big Hug,

FishieFin 鈾?

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You are in the middle of a great cycle! Make sure you check for nitrites and nitrates too though. http://www.fishforever.co.uk is a great site for help.